A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thessaloniki vs. Istanbul for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Istanbul?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Istanbul? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a vibrant, high energy, and bustling city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Thessaloniki travel costs.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a diverse, beautiful, and high-energy city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Istanbul is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Istanbul travel costs.

Thessaloniki and Istanbul: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Mosque


Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Istanbul?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Thessaloniki. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Thessaloniki attracts visitors for its beaches. Istanbul is more touristy than Thessaloniki and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Thessaloniki is famous for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections.

How is Thessaloniki different from Istanbul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Istanbul and Thessaloniki. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thessaloniki or Istanbul?

Thessaloniki
Istanbul

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Istanbul are world-renowned. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

Many visitors head to Thessaloniki specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.


Is the Food Better in Thessaloniki or Istanbul? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thessaloniki
Istanbul

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Istanbul is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

Dining out in Thessaloniki is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

Is Thessaloniki or Istanbul Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki
Istanbul

Both Thessaloniki and Istanbul have very good vibes after the sun sets.

Thessaloniki has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

The people in Istanbul know how to have a good time. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

Is Thessaloniki or Istanbul Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki
Istanbul

Thessaloniki is a moderate city for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Thessaloniki is a good spot to see the beach. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.


Is Thessaloniki or Istanbul Better for its Old Town?

Thessaloniki
Istanbul

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Istanbul is revered around the world. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Istanbul?

Thessaloniki
Istanbul

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Thessaloniki and Istanbul.

Thessaloniki is well-known for its shopping. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Istanbul. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

Is Thessaloniki or Istanbul More Beautiful?

Thessaloniki
Istanbul

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Thessaloniki is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Istanbul is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With its many beautiful mosques and historic sights, it is a beautiful city by the Bosphorus.

Thessaloniki is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Thessaloniki or Istanbul Better for Families?

Thessaloniki
Istanbul

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Istanbul is very family-friendly. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thessaloniki. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.

Is Thessaloniki or Istanbul Better for Couples?

Thessaloniki
Istanbul

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Istanbul makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

Thessaloniki is a good city for couples to visit. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.

Is Thessaloniki or Istanbul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki
Istanbul

Istanbul is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Istanbul is extremely popular for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.


Is Thessaloniki or Istanbul Better for Students?

Thessaloniki
Istanbul

Both Thessaloniki and Istanbul are very good destinations for students.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

Istanbul is very popular with students. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Is Thessaloniki or Istanbul Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thessaloniki
Istanbul

Istanbul is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Istanbul can get you around easily. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

You'll find some public transit in Thessaloniki, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

Is Thessaloniki or Istanbul a more walkable city?

Thessaloniki
Istanbul

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Istanbul is a very walkable city. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable city. You can explore much of the city center on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Thessaloniki Worth Visiting? and Is Istanbul Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Istanbul or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Istanbul?

Both Thessaloniki and Istanbul have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Thessaloniki. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 3-7 days is enough time in Istanbul.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Thessaloniki. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Istanbul, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Istanbul than Thessaloniki. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Istanbul that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Istanbul than Thessaloniki if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Istanbul.


  • How many days in Thessaloniki or Istanbul? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thessaloniki 2-4 
    Istanbul 3-7

One day in Thessaloniki or Istanbul?

The city of Thessaloniki offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Istanbul?

Thessaloniki is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Thessaloniki, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Istanbul is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Istanbul?

Thessaloniki is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A week in Thessaloniki or Istanbul?

Thessaloniki is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Istanbul is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey.


Which place is cheaper, Istanbul or Thessaloniki?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Thessaloniki Prices
    Greece Prices
    Istanbul Prices
    Turkey Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Thessaloniki 165
    Istanbul 130

The average daily cost (per person) in Thessaloniki is €165, while the average daily cost in Istanbul is €130. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Thessaloniki and Istanbul in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thessaloniki 79
    Istanbul 42
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thessaloniki 158
    Istanbul 84
Compare Hotels in Thessaloniki and Istanbul

Looking for a hotel in Thessaloniki or Istanbul? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Thessaloniki


Hotels in Istanbul


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Thessaloniki Hotel Prices and Istanbul Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thessaloniki 13
    Istanbul 48

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Thessaloniki

Also for Thessaloniki, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bus Transfer to/from Kavala: $17
  • One Way Private Transfer SKG Airport to / from Thessaloniki City Center: $24
  • Thessaloniki Airport Private Transfer Service: $31
  • Thessaloniki city from or to SKG airport transfer: $37
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) to Thessaloniki - Arrival Transfer: $40
  • Transfer from SKG Thesaloniki airport to Thessaloniki city hotels: $42
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to City Center: $58
  • Private Transfer in Macedonia: $63
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Halkidiki Area: $79
  • Thessaloniki Airport - Sani Transfer: $79
  • Private Transfer - Thessaloniki Port to Thessaloniki Airport SKG: $87
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Port to Thessaloniki hotels: $87

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Istanbul are as follows:


  • Ferry
    0.08
  • Local Bus
    0.08

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Istanbul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:

  • İstanbul airport transfer: $35
  • İstanbul Vip Airport Transfer : $50
  • İstanbul Private Arrival Transfer : $54
  • İstanbul New Airport Transfer : $53
  • İstanbul Airport Transfer(Airport to Hotel,Hotel to Airport): $61
  • İstanbul Airport Transfer : Your reliable & Stress-Free ride: $55
  • Vip Airport Transfer to/from Istanbul City Center: $63
  • VIP Transfers Services and Tailor Made Transportation Solutions: $105
  • Try find your better than us! Airport transfer service in Istanbul HTL-APT (IST): $43
  • Try find your better than us! Airport transfer service in Istanbul APT-HTL (IST): $43
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Istanbul HTL-APT (SAW): $52
  • Troy Full-Day Guided Tour incl. Transfer, Ferry Tickets w/Lunch : $157

Is it cheaper to fly into Thessaloniki or Istanbul?

Prices for flights to both Istanbul and Thessaloniki change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Thessaloniki 72
    Istanbul 47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Thessaloniki

For Thessaloniki, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Open Market Food Tour with Tasting: $46
  • Walking Open Market Food Tour and Tasting: $47
  • Cooking & Dining Experience with Greek Family: $61
  • Guided Food Tour: $67
  • Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $68
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour With A Local: $82
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $83
  • Private Walking Tour Gastronomic Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $84
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour With A Local: $85
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $86
  • Greek Cooking Class, Market Visit and Lunch: $92
  • Greek Cooking Class, Market visit and Lunch: $94

Typical Food Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of dining costs in Istanbul are as follows:


  • Juice
    0.05
  • Turkish Delight
    0.02
  • Dessert
    0.23
  • Pastries
    0.04

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Istanbul

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Istanbul.

  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Incl. Drinks with Transfer: $15
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table: $15
  • Dinner Cruise & Turkish Night Show & Private Table: $16
  • Dinner Cruise and Entertainment with Private Table: $17
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Entertainment: $19
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Private Table: $21
  • Sultania Luxury Cruise Bosphorus Dinner: $22
  • Turkish Night on the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise: $23
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Tour With Turkish Night Show: $24
  • Bosphorus Night Cruise with Dinner, Show and Private Table: $28
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Transfer Included: $29
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise , Unlimited Drinks, & Show: $30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thessaloniki 26
    Istanbul 69

Tours and Activities in Thessaloniki

For Thessaloniki, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • White Tower Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.25
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour & Narrative: $8.25
  • Thessaloniki Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $8.40
  • Selfie Museum Admission Ticket: $10
  • Museum of Illusions Admission Ticket: $11
  • Byzantine Museum E-Ticket with Audio Tour: $12
  • Experience Ancient Greece: A Musical Journey: $16
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $17
  • Thessaloniki Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour: $17
  • Byzantine Museum E-Ticket & Audio City Tour: $17
  • City Sightseeing Thessaloniki Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $17
  • OTE Tower Rotating Experience with Light Meal: $19

Typical Entertainment Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Istanbul are as follows:


  • Bosphurus Boat (for 2)
    0.54
  • Yerebatan Cistern for Two
    0.54
  • Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts for Two
    0.27
  • Hagia Sofia entrance
    0.81

Tours and Activities in Istanbul

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Istanbul are as follows:

  • All in One Day Istanbul - Historical Tour of Istanbul with Bosphorus Cruise: $158
  • Bosphorus Cruise And Asia Minor Tour: $220
  • Bosphorus Morning or Sunset Guided Cruise Tour: $23
  • Dolmabace Palace, Bosphorus Boat Tour , Eyüp Sultan Mosque Tour: $150
  • Full Day Guided Tour in Istanbul (SL-9): $125
  • Full day old city tour (LT1): $137
  • Highlights of Cappadocia with Mehmet Private Tour: $85
  • Istanbul Customized Daily Tour: $200
  • Istanbul Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Combo Ticket: $72
  • Istanbul Half Day City Tour (Ottoman Relics): $83
  • Private Guided Istanbul Walking Tour: $170
  • "Ertugrul & Osman Gazi Film Set Tour with Lunch": $129

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thessaloniki 15
    Istanbul 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Thessaloniki

Also in Thessaloniki, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Saturday Night Bar Crawl in Thessaloniki, Greece: $25
  • From Pella-Edessa-Naousa wine tasting: $67
  • Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $78
  • Thessaloniki Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $80
  • Wine Tasting & Farm tour in Thessaloniki: $84
  • Winery Visit with Wine Tasting Experience: $98
  • Wine Tasting Experience from Thessaloniki: $100
  • Private Day Trip to Petralona Cave and Afytos with Wine Tasting : $116
  • Wine Touring a Step Away from the city: $189

Sample the Local Flavors in Istanbul

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Istanbul:

  • Rooftop Pub Crawl with Party Bus: $22
  • Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl #1 Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Istanbul Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus in Sultanahmet and Taksim: $27
  • Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus: $29
  • Istanbul Wine Tasting at Home with Local Family: $75
  • Istanbul Private Wine Tasting Tour Through 3 City Wineries : $237


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Thessaloniki and Istanbul, we can see that Thessaloniki is more expensive. And not only is Istanbul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Istanbul would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Istanbul and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Thessaloniki would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Thessaloniki than you might in Istanbul.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Thessaloniki Expensive? and Is Istanbul Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Istanbul?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Thessaloniki. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Istanbul, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Thessaloniki or Istanbul?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Istanbul in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Istanbul. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Istanbul in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Istanbul. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 25°C (77°F), and Istanbul fluctuates around 24°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Istanbul. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thessaloniki this time of the year. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Istanbul. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 333 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets more rain in July than Istanbul. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thessaloniki 25°C (77°F) 
    Istanbul 24°C (74°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Istanbul in the Autumn?

Both Istanbul and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Istanbul in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Istanbul fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Istanbul during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Istanbul. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thessaloniki 16°C (61°F) 
    Istanbul 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Istanbul in the Winter?

Both Istanbul and Thessaloniki during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Thessaloniki is cooler than Istanbul. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thessaloniki in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Istanbul averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Istanbul. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 75 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Istanbul. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thessaloniki 5°C (41°F) 
    Istanbul 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Istanbul in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Istanbul. The spring months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year.

In April, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Istanbul. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 13°C (56°F), and Istanbul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Istanbul during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Istanbul. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thessaloniki 13°C (56°F) 
    Istanbul 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Istanbul and Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki Istanbul
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 21°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 26 mm (1 in) 24°C (74°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 25°C (76°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 24°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 26 mm (1 in) 20°C (69°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (47°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)